US ELECTION 2024
What time do polling places close in New Jersey? NJ state closing times in the US Election 2024
Everything New Jersey voters need to know as they cast their ballot in the Presidential Election, with Kamala Harris going head to head with Donald Trump.
With the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election upon us, New Jersey voters are getting ready to head to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 5. This guide outlines polling hours, what you need to bring to vote, and other key information to help ensure a smooth experience on Election Day itself.
Follow US Election 2024 live updates: Trump vs Harris Presidential Race.
Polling hours in New Jersey
On Election Day, polling places in New Jersey are open from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time. If you are in line by 8:00 p.m., you will be allowed to vote.
What to bring to vote in New Jersey
New Jersey does not require voters to present identification at the polls in most cases. However, if you did not provide valid identification when you registered to vote, you will need to show ID at the polling place. Acceptable forms of identification include:
- New Jersey driver’s license
- Military or other government ID
- Student or job ID
- Store membership card
- United States passport
- Bank statement
- Car registration
- Government check or document
- Non-photo New Jersey driver’s license
- Rent receipt
- Sample ballot
- Utility bill
- Any other official document
If you do not have any of these forms of ID, you may be required to cast a provisional ballot.
Expected wait times and tips for a smooth voting experience
Line lengths can vary depending on the time of day and the location. Here’s a general guide:
Early Morning (6 a.m. - 10 a.m.): Many people vote early, so lines can be longer right when polling places open. If you can, avoid the 7 a.m - 8 a.m. slot.
Midday (10 a.m. - 3 p.m.): Lines are often shorter, as this period sees fewer voters. If you have a flexible schedule, this is usually the best time to avoid long waits. That said, there is usually an increase between 11:30 and 1:30 p.m. so if you can avoid that two hour slot.
Late Afternoon and Evening (3 p.m. - 7 p.m.): Crowds tend to increase as people leave work, so lines can grow longer as polling places near closing. 5 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. is usually the busiest.
To make your voting experience easier:
- Bring water, snacks, and any needed medication if you anticipate waiting for a while.
- Check your polling location ahead of time; it may have changed from previous elections.
- Review your sample ballot before you go to save time when filling out your selections.
Other useful information for New Jersey voters
Absentee Voting Deadlines: The deadline to request a mail-in ballot has passed. If you have already received a mail-in ballot, it must be postmarked by November 5, 2024, and received by your county Board of Elections by November 10, 2024.
Provisional Ballots: If there is an issue with your registration or identification at the polling place, you may cast a provisional ballot. These ballots are counted once your eligibility is confirmed.
Voter Assistance Hotline: For any questions or concerns on Election Day, contact the New Jersey Division of Elections at 1-877-NJ-VOTER (1-877-658-6837).
Key takeaways for voting in New Jersey on Election Day
To ensure you’re prepared for voting in the 2024 Presidential Election in New Jersey :
- Polls are open from 06:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.
- Bring an acceptable photo ID to the polling station if required.
- Choose a voting time based on expected crowd levels.
- Plan for potential wait times and bring any essentials you may need.
- Check the status of your registration and polling location before you head out.